2017 Media Releases

Comments on Environmental Plan Now Available Online

Public comments on the Lincoln Environmental Action Plan (LEAP) are now available at lincoln.ne.gov (keyword: LEAP). The suggestions were provided this summer during a public review of the plan, which outlines strategies in the areas of energy, land use, transportation, waste and water resources.

"We place tremendous value on the public's willingness to engage and assist the City in shaping our future environmental policies," said Frank Uhlarik, Sustainability and Compliance Administrator. "The recommendations provided by our residents will make the plan more effective, resulting in improved environmental and economic outcomes for the community."

The public review process generated over 200 comments from 85 individuals. Common recommendations included the following:

Improve environmental education and outreach.

Establish more aggressive clean energy goals.

Increase support and communication relative to preserving natural resources.

Provide incentives for infill development while discouraging urban sprawl.

Expand incentives/disincentives for water conservation.

While comments were mostly supportive, Uhlarik said, constructive criticism will help ensure the final plan strikes the balance necessary for broad community support. Constructive criticism included concerns over recycling and energy efficiency programs being mandatory and a suggestion that the plan be broader and more closely aligned with other cities' sustainability plans. Another suggestion was to clarify how specific strategies can achieve stated goals.

Over the next few weeks, City staff will incorporate viable suggestions into a revised draft to present to the City Council for adoption. Additional suggestions may be submitted to Uhlarik at fuhlarik@lincoln.ne.gov.